Wollongong
Investment Score
78
/100
AI Intelligence Summary
Wollongong is NSW's third-largest city, located 80km south of Sydney along the stunning Illawarra coast. This vibrant regional hub combines industrial heritage with modern amenities, anchored by the prestigious University of Wollongong and thriving steel industry. The suburb offers an exceptional lifestyle with pristine beaches, escarpment bushwalking, and a growing cultural scene. Property markets show resilience with coastal proximity driving demand, particularly for units offering Sydney affordability alternatives. The recent railway electrification has significantly improved connectivity to Sydney, making it increasingly attractive for commuters and sea-changers. Demographics reflect a diverse, educated population with strong multicultural influences and substantial student numbers. The Innovation Campus is positioning Wollongong as a technology hub, while Port Kembla expansion supports logistics growth. Investment fundamentals remain strong with tight rental markets, lifestyle appeal, and infrastructure improvements driving long-term value. Challenges include industrial legacy issues and weather exposure, but ongoing urban renewal and economic diversification present significant opportunities for property investors seeking regional growth with metropolitan connectivity.
Strengths
- •Excellent transport connectivity with electrified rail to Sydney
- •Prestigious University of Wollongong driving student accommodation demand
- •Stunning coastal location with beaches and escarpment access
- •Diverse economy with steel, education, technology and tourism sectors
Opportunities
- •Innovation Campus expansion attracting technology companies
- •Port Kembla freight hub development boosting logistics sector
- •Gentrification of heritage industrial precincts
- •Growing appeal as Sydney commuter alternative with rail improvements
Considerations
- •Weather exposure including potential storm and flooding risks
- •Industrial legacy areas requiring ongoing remediation
- •Competition from other coastal regional centres
- •Economic dependence on steel industry volatility
Property Market
$890K
+8.2% 1yr
$565K
+9.1% 1yr
$720K
$720/wk
$550/wk
32
1.8%
72.0%
Price Growth
| Type | 1 Year | 3 Year | 5 Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| House | +8.2% | +24.1% | +42.3% |
| Unit | +9.1% | +26.4% | +45.2% |
Rental Yields
House Yield
4.2%
Unit Yield
5.1%
Townhouse Yield
4.6%
Investment Scorecard
Demand/Supply Ratio: 1.80
Demand exceeds supply — favourable for sellers
Tax & Financial Intelligence
CPA-grade analysis for Wollongong at median house price
Save $19,019
+8% surcharge
$720/wk
Negatively geared
Reduces taxable income
~$365/week
Based on 8.5% p.a. growth (from 5-year trend), 50% CGT discount, 39% MTR
5-Year Hold
10-Year Hold
Investor Quick Summary
Entry cost (stamp duty)
$34,580
After-tax yield
2.56%
Weekly holding cost
$365/wk
10yr CGT (est.)
$209,789
Estimates based on FY2025 NSW rates at median house price. Assumes 80% LVR, 6.5% interest rate, 39% marginal tax rate ($135K-$190K bracket). Individual circumstances vary. This is general information only and not personal financial advice. Consult your CPA before making investment decisions. Local Knowledge Pty Ltd — Registered Tax Agent.
Demographics
68,600
34
$69K
per annum
58.0%
42.0%
38.0%
6.2%
31.0%
Dwelling Mix
Lifestyle & Community
180
25
2
82.0 km
Nearest Station: Wollongong Station
Exceptional outdoor recreation with beaches, escarpment hiking, botanic gardens, growing food scene, cultural festivals, and university-driven arts and entertainment options.
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Data sourced from multiple sources. Last updated 30 March 2026.